Natthaphong Ruengpanyawut, leader of the People's Party, insists his party has no policy to amend Section 112 of the Criminal Code, accusing Prime Minister and Bhumjaithai Party leader Anutin Charnvirakul of distorting the issue for political advantage ahead of the general election.
Speaking yesterday, Mr Natthaphong said the People's Party is entering the election with strong momentum and a clear objective of turning all 33 Bangkok constituencies "orange", the party's colour, while securing the highest number of votes nationwide.
He said the party's campaign policies, recently published on its website, have received positive feedback. Mr Natthaphong outlined the party's campaign pillars, beginning with eliminating "grey areas" in governance to strengthen the rule of law and ensure justice.
Describing the party's electoral strategy, he said its sole approach is to "stand behind the people" by presenting strong policies, credible candidates and a capable management team, with the ultimate goal of forming what he called a "people's government".
"Our objective is to win the most votes so we are not outmanoeuvred by second‑ or third‑ranked parties forming a coalition under false political pretexts." Mr Natthaphong also labelled claims his party will seek to amend Section 112 as misleading rhetoric by Mr Anutin, adding the move is not on the agenda.
On coalition politics, he said People's Party MPs would not support Mr Anutin as prime minister but cooperation with other parties remains possible if key conditions are accepted. These include barring "grey" figures from cabinet posts and allowing the prime minister to replace any minister found to have a questionable record.
Looking ahead, Mr Natthaphong said the party will run in all 400 constituencies and unveil its management team on Jan 10.
It will conclude the campaign with a major rally ahead of election day.